Cycling Tours - Tasmania

Tasmania East Coast Classic

Tasmania is an island roughly the size of West Virginia or Switzerland, located 240 km off the south-east corner of mainland Australia, with its neighbour being Antarctica, 2000 km south this is a very special place to visit. On this extraordinary cycle tour, you'll coast along peninsulas weaving together pristine white sandy beaches, relict rainforest, fossil- filled cliffs, azure waters, pink granite peaks and famous national parks, our Tasmania coastal tour will completely dissolve you in the true essence of Tasmania. Our six- day journey down the East Coast from Launceston to Hobart offers challenging riding days, infused with dramatic landscapes, historic villages, charming accommodations and an abundance of local Tasmanian delicacies. Savour superb food and delicious wines along the way to tempt any gourmet guru. Compared to the rugged mountainous west coast, the east is blessed with a calmer, mild climate with ever-changing terrain and scenery. This East Coast cycling tour takes you through a temperate natural paradise nearly 300km from north to south.

"The five day Launceston to Hobart tour is a perfect introduction to tour cycling or if you are time poor. We cycled around 450kms of the east coast and took options for side visits such as the World Heritage site of Port Arthur courtesy of a car trip with Adam, our wonderful support and guide. With all the details taken care of by Cycling Tours and with Adam ferrying our clobber from point to point, we were free to make the most of the unspoilt coastline, white beaches, aqua waters, ancient rain forests and tiny villages of Tasmania." Read the full review at http://www.chronic-adventures.com/cycling-tasmania/ Tracey Croke Australia

TOUR MAP AND ITINERARY

DAY 1 Spend the first day exploring and discovering Launceston’s unique natural and cultural elements. The vibrant colourful streets are lined with Victorian and Edwardian buildings, entwined with an array of art galleries, museums and cafes.

DAY 5 Distance: 50 km Altitude gain: 282mSwansea to Triabunna – The tracts of eucalyptus forest and the scenic coastline of Triabunna will be at your side this morning. Pursued by a vehicle transfer down to Tasman Island. Take in the sights at the Devils Kitchen and the Tasmanian Arch. Explore the cultural heritage of Port Arthur.DAY 6 Distance: 22-60 km Altitude gain: Up to 1460mHobart and surrounds – Let the final day encapsulate you in the vastness of the Tasmanian Island from the top of Mt Wellington. Give your self a moment of rejuvenation by absorbing the panoramic views out towards the infinite entity of crystal blue waterways.

Tasmania Accommodation

Penny Royal Motel and Apartments, LauncestonPenny Royal exudes old world charm with modern conveniences. It is a 3½ star heritage property with modern facilities located just 5 minutes walk to Launceston CBD, famous Cataract Gorge and the Old Launceston Seaport Restaurants.

Tidal Waters Resort, St HelensSurrounded by three hectares of scenic lagoons and gardens, this beautiful resort boasts the definitive Tasmanian East Coast waterfront setting. The resort features 60 elegant guest rooms on two floors, each with ensuite bathroom's and a private balcony highlighting exquisite garden or water views. The King Spa rooms overlook Georges Bay and offer the added luxury of your own private spa.

Best Western, BichenoThe Bicheno resort is situated opposite the beach minutes from scuba diving, fishing spots and penguin tours. Well designed rooms offer breathtaking views of Waubs Bay and the perfect base to explore Tasmania’s stunningly beautiful east coast. Additional facilities include a licensed restaurant and bar, swimming pool and BBQ area.

Freycinet Lodge, Freycinet National ParkThe advanced eco accredited Freycinet Lodge nestles at the foot of the Hazards mountains, located uniquely within Freycinet National Park. Their environmentally friendly cabins are sensitively sited in coastal bushland on the shores of Great Oyster Bay. Timber boardwalks link each private cabin to the main lodge, with two restaurants, lounge and bar, cosy log fire and expansive deck overlooking the water. Venture out from the lodge to discover a land of sea, sand and sky.

The Old Woolstore Apartments, HobartNationally recognized at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in February 2009, winning Best Deluxe Accommodation, this highly coveted award acknowledges excellence in 4 to 4.5 star accommodation category Australia wide and truly reflects the service you will experience during your stay here.